Water resistant woods: this is what you should know

Posted by Scot Mann on November 21, 2017

When looking for the most befitting stain for your outdoor (or indoor) wood project, several factors need to be considered. There are two main stain types according to their bases- oil-based stain & water-based stain; and in specific conditions, one is practically better than the other. Depending on the type of wood, any previous wood treatment & weather exposure, both these types of stains offer different levels of coverage & protection. Here are some properties of both the the stain types to guide your decision:

- The water-based stain is breathable, does not emit harmful fumes or odors, is not flammable, dries quickly, retains its color for a longer period of time, offers a richer hue of color, is extremely resistant to mildew and mold, and is easier to clean requiring only soap and water; while

- the oil-based stain needs more time to dry that allows for a more even finish, penetrates wood deeper, requires less for long-term maintenance, is extremely durable and offers a thicker seal for wood.

The type of wood also plays a key role in deciding the right stain. For example, when coating a wood with natural resistance to rotting, it is better to use a water-based stain. Examples of this kind of wood are cypress, cedar & redwood.

Similarly, previous wood treatment is a crucial factor to arrive upon the correct stain. If the wood to be stained bears a previous coating of stain/ paint, care should be taken to ensure a new, even protective layer. It may be difficult to ascertain the previous layer, but knowing it will undoubtedly help in choosing the apt stain. If the previous layer is oil-based, opting for a water-based stain now is advisable as the latter will adhere better as compared to an oil-based one.

The kind of weather the wood will be exposed to is also significant in determining the best stain-base. If the wood element is going to have a direct exposure to rain, wind & sunlight, an oil-based stain is the best option. This is because it is more durable than a water-based stain, and will impart a much better protective cover against these weather conditions.

Interior spaces like bathrooms & kitchens are also in constant contact with varying levels of high moisture, especially bathrooms. And so, staining the floors & other wooden surfaces becomes important in these spaces too. In this image, the stained pine floor looks natural even in the monochrome design.

Water resistant woods: this is what you should know. In keeping with the rising popularity of the naturally noble wood as the chief composing material not only for floors but for entire homes, the professional experts have lately been innovating different styles & exploring varieties of wood that are water resistant, insect-proof, and with a high

Water Resistant Woods: This Is What You Should Know. When looking for the most befitting stain for your outdoor (or indoor) wood project, several factors need to be considered. There are two main stain types according to their bases- oil-based stain & water-based stain; and in specific conditions, one is practically better than the other.

Video of Water resistant woods: this is what you should know

Water resistant woods: this is what you should know t Woods While all woods respond to water, some species last a little longer in wet and damp environments. Hardwoods in general have better water resiliency than softer woods like pine because the fibers are tightly packed together, resulting in less absorption, which does not mean all hardwoods are waterproof. How Water Resistant Is Poplar Wood?. Treated poplar wood is significantly more water resistant than is untreated wood. Treating the wood protects it not only from the elements, but from harmful wood-decaying organisms, according to the University of Minnesota. 8 Rot-Resistant Woods For Your Outdoor Projects. Wood has an undeniable warmth and an association with woodlands and natural landscapes, and one type of rot-resistant wood can be used in a variety of ways. From an environmental standpoint, wood is a great choice when it is locally sourced and sustainably harvested. 9 Mighty Woods For Outdoor Projects. 9 mighty woods for outdoor projects. Advantages and disadvantages of 9 outdoor woods. Western red cedar and redwood stock tend to appear straight-grained and are dimensionally stable and naturally decay resistant. Both, however, can split when driving fasteners. ACQ is a water-based preservative forced deep into the lumber, usually Naturally Rot-Resistant Woods. Not quite as resistant as these, but still defined as resistant or very resistant, according to the FPL, are more common woods that are widely sold for outdoor use: various species of cedar, cypress, redwood, and white oak. The following two sections list domestic and tropical tree species whose wood is exceptionally resistant, resistant or very resistant, and moderately resistant.